PV Cleaning

A major parameter on which the efficiency of photovoltaic panels depends on is the extent of light transmittance from the glass surface. This grade is reduced, in cases of dust concentration or from other impurities sticking on the scanner glass of the modules.

Scientific research point out clearly that pv installation in Mediterranean Europe require special care for frequent cleaning of PV panels' arrays from sticking dust. In Greece the problem is peculiar because of the high concentration of dust and sand in the atmosphere due to the proximity of our country to North Africa (collection and transportation of sand volumes in the atmosphere from this region to our country).

The permeability problem is growing more from additional pollutants such as bird droppings, pollen from plants and other pollutants from the local environment (farms etc).

According to studies, it is estimated that an installation in Greece with P V panels' slope at 30 degrees, may have decline in performance of PV arrays averaged 15% (5% -25%).

For the cleaning of PV panels we faithfully follow manufacturer's instructions. Generally the main steps to be followed are:

• Spraying the surface with water or a mixture according to the manufacturer's specifications
• Scanning with controlled pressure of the surface by using special sponge
• Scanning the wet surface to dry